Under the Hood

• Look at the dipstick. Gray or milky oil may indicate serious engine problems
• Take off the radiator cap and check the coolant. It should be brightly colored and clean. Oil in the coolant may indicate serious engine problems
• Check the radiator cooling fans and the battery and its mounting platform for corrosion and other damage
• Look for signs of rust under the carpet (if possible) and mats (don't forget the boot)
• Check that the jack and toolkit are in place and in good condition
  

Buying for a Used Car - Outside Assessment Tips

• Check the paintwork for bubbles and color differences, which could indicate rust or an accident
• Use a fridge magnet to check suspicious areas for body filler - the magnet won't stick to filler
• Panels that don't seem to fit properly, or doors, the boot lid and windows that don't open and close properly can indicate the car's been in an accident
• Check for:

• Cracks in the windshield
• Worn or rusted windshield wipers
• Cracked or corroded mirrors
• Broken Light lenses

• Check for the tires, including the spare, for sufficient tread and uneven wear (which can show a problem with the steering or suspension)
• Check under the car for oil leaks

Buying for a Used Car - General Tips

General Tips:

• Inspect the car in daylight or in a well lit area. You will need a safe space to open the doors and walk around
• Does the vehicle have all the equipment that is indicated by your research materials? Note what's missing
• Note all removable items. Specify which of these should be included in the sale
• Check for service records in the glove box. Look for any oil change sticker - was it changed recently?
  

Buying for a Used Car

Before you begin your search for a good deal on a used car, spend time considering many of the same factors that would apply to a new car purchase:

• how will you use the vehicle
• how long do you plan to keep it
• your budget for the purchase (including insurance, operation, maintenance and repair costs)

Buying a used car can save money if you know what to look for. If you don't, you may just be buying someone else's problems. To buy a used car, you need to know-how. What to look for, where to look for it and when to say no and walk away.